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Fifth Street Auto Salvage – Oxnard, CA Auto Salvage Yard
A Leading Auto Salvage Yard in Ventura County
Fifth Street Auto Salvage, located at 501 Pacific Ave, Oxnard, CA 93030, has established itself as a prominent used auto parts provider in Ventura County. This full-service wrecking yard offers a comprehensive selection of affordable used parts and specializes in buying unwanted vehicles while providing reliable service to the Oxnard community.
Fifth Street Auto Salvage Quick Facts
- Address: 501 Pacific Ave, Oxnard, CA 93030
- Phone: (805) 486–8429
- Hours: Monday–Friday: 8 AM–5 PM; Saturday: 8 AM–3 PM; Sunday: Closed
- Payment Methods: MasterCard, Visa
- Services: Used auto parts sales, junk car buying, vehicle recycling
Establishment and Ownership
Fifth Street Auto Salvage is a testament to the long-standing tradition of auto salvage operations in Ventura County. While specific details about its founding aren’t widely available in public records, historical context from a 2000 Los Angeles Times article identified Bruce Shepard as the owner at that time. The business was part of a cluster of auto salvage operations in the area, many of which have operated for decades.
The auto recycling industry in Oxnard has faced various challenges over the years, including fluctuating scrap metal prices and changing consumer behaviors. However, many yards, including Fifth Street Auto Salvage, have persisted by adapting to market demands, such as specializing in specific vehicle types or wholesale parts sales.
For comparison, neighboring Pacific Auto Salvage (owned by Doug McAden) was established in 1956 by McAden’s father, illustrating the multi-generational nature of many salvage businesses in the region. These long-standing operations form an important part of Oxnard’s automotive ecosystem.
Services Provided
| Service Type | Description | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Junk Car Buying | Purchase of unwanted vehicles | Free towing, same-day pickup, 30+ years experience |
| Used Auto Parts Sales | Quality used parts for repairs | Comprehensive inventory, assistance locating parts |
| Vehicle Recycling | Environmentally responsible disposal | Proper handling of automotive fluids and materials |
| Parts Searching | Assistance finding specific parts | Staff helps locate parts not in current inventory |
Full-Service Operation
Fifth Street Auto Salvage operates as a full-service salvage yard, distinguishing itself from self-service operations. Unlike yards where customers must pull parts themselves, Fifth Street emphasizes customer assistance and professional dismantling services. Their operational model focuses on:
- Professional Part Removal: Staff handles the dismantling process rather than requiring customers to remove parts themselves
- Local Focus: Services primarily target in-person transactions in the Oxnard area
- Consistent Business Hours: Regular Monday-Friday business hours with Saturday availability
Junk Car Purchase Program
One of Fifth Street Auto Salvage’s core services is buying unwanted vehicles from the public. They offer:
- Free Towing Service: Complimentary vehicle pickup from your location
- Same-Day Pickup: Quick removal of junk cars
- Experience: Leveraging over 30 years of industry knowledge in evaluating vehicles
Looking to get rid of your old vehicle? Fifth Street Auto Salvage might be an option worth considering. Their free towing service means you can get cash for your junk car without worrying about transportation costs.
Vehicle Types and Inventory
Fifth Street Auto Salvage maintains a diverse inventory of used vehicles and auto parts, serving as a resource for a wide range of automotive needs. While their specific inventory isn’t publicly cataloged by makes and models, they promote having “a huge inventory of used parts for all types of vehicles” and emphasize their ability to source parts if they’re not immediately available in stock.
The yard specializes in:
– Unwanted junk vehicles
– Used automobiles
– Various makes and models
Although detailed information about newer or late-model availability isn’t specified in public records, their focus on “all types of vehicles” suggests a broad selection that likely includes both domestic and import vehicles, similar to other salvage operations in California.
If you’re specifically looking for body parts, you might find quality used car hoods or other exterior parts at competitive prices compared to new OEM options.
Popular Auto Parts
| Part Category | Common Parts | Why People Buy Used |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical | Engines, transmissions, alternators, starters | 80–90% savings vs. new parts |
| Body Parts | Doors, fenders, hoods, bumpers, grilles | Perfect for older vehicles, cosmetic repairs |
| Electrical | Control modules, infotainment systems, radios | Dealer-only parts available at fraction of cost |
| Interior | Seats, dashboards, center consoles | Upgrades, replacement of worn items |
| Glass | Windshields, side windows, rear glass | 40–60% savings over new glass |
Fifth Street Auto Salvage and comparable salvage yards typically stock high-demand used parts that offer significant cost savings over new replacements. While specific inventory varies, these are the most frequently purchased items:
1. Engines and Transmissions
These major mechanical parts are among the most sought-after items due to their high replacement costs when new. A used engine or transmission can save customers thousands of dollars compared to new or remanufactured options. Used engine blocks can be particularly valuable for those facing major repair bills.
2. Alternators and Electrical Components
Electrical system parts like alternators, starters, and various control modules are popular purchases. These parts are often removed intact from vehicles and tested for functionality before being sold.
3. Body Panels and Doors
Exterior parts such as hoods, fenders, doors, and trunk lids are frequently sourced for collision repairs. These parts are particularly valuable because new body panels can be prohibitively expensive, especially for older vehicles.
4. Windshields and Glass
Used windshields and side glass are popular due to their high cost when new. Many salvage yards stock these parts after verifying they’re free from cracks or major damage.
5. Electronics and Radios
Entertainment systems, radios, and other electronic modules are sought after for compatibility with specific vehicle models. This is especially true for older vehicles where new replacement parts may no longer be manufactured.
6. Suspension Parts
Quality used suspension parts like struts, control arms, and steering racks offer significant savings over new parts while providing OEM fit and function.
Fifth Street Auto Salvage, like other professional salvage operations, emphasizes proper dismantling, inventory tagging, and part verification to ensure quality. Their ability to locate hard-to-find parts through industry networks further enhances their role as a resource for these components.
Service Area
Fifth Street Auto Salvage serves customers from throughout Ventura County and surrounding areas. The business’s location in Oxnard makes it accessible to residents from numerous nearby communities:
Ventura County Coastal Areas
- Ventura: Known for its historic downtown and coastal attractions
- Port Hueneme: Adjacent to Oxnard, offering cooler coastal weather
- Camarillo: Located in central Ventura County with agricultural landscapes
- Moorpark: Situated in central Ventura County, closer to eastern cities
- Santa Paula: Central Ventura County town with mountain views
Los Angeles County Areas
- Pacoima: Approximately 1 hour north of Oxnard
- Castaic: Located in northern Los Angeles County
- San Fernando: Part of the San Fernando Valley region
- Valley Village: A neighborhood in Los Angeles
- West Los Angeles: Urban area with diverse demographics
- Westwood Village: Known for UCLA and commercial districts
- Castaic Junction: Near Castaic Lake
These locations fall within a reasonable driving distance for customers seeking automotive parts from Fifth Street Auto Salvage, making it a regional resource for used auto parts in Southern California.
For those looking beyond Oxnard, California offers numerous salvage yards throughout the state where you can find similar services.
Interchange System
While specific information about Fifth Street Auto Salvage’s auto parts interchange system isn’t detailed in available sources, most professional salvage yards utilize established industry practices to help customers find compatible parts:
Auto Parts Interchange Systems in Salvage Yards
General Approach:
Many salvage yards use interchange databases to identify parts that fit multiple vehicle models. These systems help customers find compatible parts even when the exact vehicle match isn’t available in the yard’s inventory.
Key Features:
1. Cross-Referencing Tools: Customers provide their vehicle details (make, model, year) and the desired part, and the system identifies compatible options from other vehicles.
2. Inventory Integration: Systems like Hollander Interchange link parts to multiple vehicles, expanding the range of potential matches.
3. Staff Assistance: Experienced staff can often guide customers in identifying compatible parts based on their knowledge of interchangeable components.
Limitations:
– Inventory Variability: Parts availability changes daily, necessitating real-time inventory checks.
– Service Consistency: The C+ BBB rating for Fifth Street Auto Salvage suggests potential inconsistencies in service quality compared to larger chain operations.
For specific information about Fifth Street Auto Salvage’s interchange capabilities, customers should contact the yard directly at (805) 486–8429.
Hours of Operation
Fifth Street Auto Salvage maintains regular business hours designed to accommodate both weekday and weekend customers:
- Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
These hours make the yard accessible for people with traditional work schedules who need to visit on a weekend. While a conflicting report from Scrap Monster lists Sunday hours as 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, the primary source (the business’s own listing) confirms Sunday closure.
The business accepts MasterCard and Visa payments for parts purchases or other services.
Tools and Equipment for Salvage Yard Visits
Fifth Street Auto Salvage is a self-service salvage yard, which means customers must bring their own tools. Below are the recommended tools based on general salvage yard practices and part-specific needs:
Essential Tools for Salvage Yard Work
- Basic Hand Tools
- Socket set (metric and standard sizes) and ratchet wrenches for bolts
- Screwdrivers (flathead, Phillips, Torx) for panels and electrical parts
- Pry bar to remove stuck panels or trim without damage
- Pliers (needle-nose, adjustable, locking) for gripping small parts or wires
- Wrenches (open-ended, box, adjustable) for hard-to-reach bolts
- Power Tools
- Cordless impact wrench or breaker bar for stubborn bolts
- Reciprocating saw (e.g., Sawzall) for cutting through metal or plastic
- Specialized Tools
- Penetrating oil (e.g., WD–40) for rusted fasteners
- Hammer (rubber mallet for gentle tapping, metal for force)
- Utility knife and wire cutters for hoses, seals, or wiring
- Safety & Comfort
- Safety glasses and work gloves
- Sunscreen and water to avoid dehydration
- Flashlight or headlamp for dark areas
Pro Tips
- Pre-removal prep: Remove the part from your vehicle first to identify the exact tools needed
- Organize parts: Use plastic bags and markers to label bolts and small parts
- Check salvage yard rules: Confirm if power tools are allowed (some yards restrict them)
For Fifth Street Auto Salvage, verify their specific policies on tool usage and part removal before visiting.
Cash for Junk Cars
Fifth Street Auto Salvage operates as an automobile recycling and dismantling business at 501 Pacific Ave in Oxnard. While direct evidence about their junk car purchase program is limited, their business category suggests they handle vehicle salvage and parts recycling.
Key Details:
– Services: Listed under “Automobile Recycling and Dismantling,” indicating they process vehicle salvage
– Payment Methods: Accepts Visa and MasterCard
– Hours: Open Monday–Friday (8 AM–5 PM), Saturday (8 AM–3 PM)
Local salvage yards typically offer cash for junk cars in any condition, including non-running vehicles, with free towing. While specific details about Fifth Street Auto Salvage’s cash policies or vehicle condition requirements aren’t explicitly stated in available sources, their business category suggests they likely purchase unwanted vehicles as part of their recycling operation.
If you’re looking to sell a junk car in Oxnard, you might want to explore how to sell your junk car in just hours for tips on getting the best deal.
Recommendation: Contact Fifth Street Auto Salvage directly at (805) 486–8429 to confirm their current policies on purchasing junk cars, cash offers, and vehicle condition acceptance.
Other Junkyards in Oxnard
1. ACME Auto Wreckers
Address: 2586 Cortez St, Oxnard, CA 93036
Key Details:
– Listed as a salvage yard in Oxnard but marked with outdated information
– No specific services or hours provided in search results
2. Other Oxnard Junkyards
From the USJunkYards database:
– 1200 Mercantile St, Oxnard, CA 93030
– 561 Buena Vista Ave, Oxnard, CA 93030
– 655 Pacific Ave, Oxnard, CA 93030
– 1441 Mountain View Ave, Oxnard, CA 93030
– 1210 E 5th St, Oxnard, CA 93030
– 640 Pacific Ave, Oxnard, CA 93030
Comparison to Fifth Street Auto Salvage:
– Services: Fifth Street Auto Salvage specializes in used auto parts and vehicle recycling, with a focus on sourcing parts if unavailable. Other junkyards lack detailed service descriptions in the provided results.
– Hours: Fifth Street operates Monday–Friday (8 AM–5 PM) and Saturday (8 AM–3 PM). Most other junkyards have unspecified hours.
– Payment: Fifth Street accepts MasterCard and Visa; payment methods for others are unlisted.
– Proximity: ACME Auto Wreckers (2586 Cortez St) and others like 655 Pacific Ave are in Oxnard but exact distances from Fifth Street Auto Salvage are not specified.
Recommendation
For competitive pricing when selling a junk car, consider using services that facilitate offers from multiple yards. Direct contact with listed junkyards is advised for detailed comparisons.
Common Questions About Fifth Street Auto Salvage
1. Do I need to prove ownership to sell my car?
Yes, junkyards like Fifth Street Auto Salvage require proof of ownership before purchasing a vehicle. Acceptable documents include a title of ownership, auction sales receipt, mechanic’s lien, storage lot lien, or repossession affidavit. This ensures legal compliance and prevents fraud.
2. Can I sell a car with a salvage title?
While some junkyards avoid vehicles with salvage titles due to ethical concerns (e.g., reselling a total-loss vehicle), others may purchase them for parts. Salvage titles indicate severe damage or insurance-declared total loss, but functional parts like engines or transmissions might still be valuable.
3. Is free towing available?
Many junkyards, including Fifth Street Auto Salvage, offer free towing services to incentivize sales and reduce costs for sellers. This allows customers to retain the full sale amount without deducting towing fees.
4. What happens if I can’t find a specific part?
Fifth Street Auto Salvage advertises a “huge inventory” of used parts and claims to locate unavailable items for customers. This suggests they prioritize assisting buyers in sourcing rare or hard-to-find parts, though availability may vary.
5. Are used parts safe and reliable?
Junkyards like Fifth Street Auto Salvage typically inspect used parts to ensure functionality and safety. However, buyers should verify testing protocols, as quality can vary between salvage yards. Some parts, like used side mirrors, are particularly reliable when purchased used.
6. How does the business reputation affect transactions?
Fifth Street Auto Salvage has a C+ BBB rating due to unresolved complaints. While not BBB-accredited, their reputation may influence trust in transactions. Buyers should research reviews and compare offers from multiple junkyards.
7. What types of vehicles do they accept?
Fifth Street Auto Salvage handles unwanted junk vehicles, used auto parts, and used automobiles, regardless of condition. They likely accept non-running or damaged vehicles, focusing on salvageable parts or scrap metal value.
Fifth Street Auto Salvage stands as a valuable resource for used auto parts and vehicle recycling in Oxnard, California. With its focus on full-service operations, the yard offers a comprehensive range of services from junk car buying to parts sourcing.
Whether you’re a DIY mechanic looking for affordable parts or someone looking to dispose of an unwanted vehicle, Fifth Street Auto Salvage provides options that benefit both your wallet and the environment through automotive recycling.
For residents of Oxnard and surrounding communities in Ventura County, this established salvage yard continues the region’s long tradition of automotive recycling businesses, helping to keep vehicles on the road longer through affordable repair options.
Fifth Street Auto Salvage is located in Oxnard, California, just off Pacific Avenue. It’s the perfect destination for car enthusiasts and auto repair shops looking to buy quality and affordable used parts. The salvage yard is home to an extensive selection of cars and car parts from all makes and models, ranging from foreign to domestic vehicles. With their expansive inventory, professional staff, and competitive prices, it’s no wonder that Fifth Street Auto Salvage is one of the leading sources for used auto parts in the area.
In addition to selling used auto parts, Fifth Street Auto Salvage also offers scrap metal recycling services for those who want to get rid of their unwanted materials in a responsible way. They take all types of metals – from aluminum cans to steel beams – so you can rest assured that whatever you bring in will be disposed of safely and responsibly. Plus, they offer great rates on scrap metals so you can get top dollar for your materials.
At Fifth Street Auto Salvage, customers can expect excellent customer service and knowledgeable staff members who are always eager to help find exactly what they’re looking for. With their wide selection of products and services, there’s something available for everyone at this junkyard. Whether you’re a DIYer looking for replacement parts or a business owner seeking out a reliable source of scrap metal recycling services, you won’t be disappointed with Fifth Street Auto Salvage!
Real customer testimonials
Liz R.
Negative 7 I been calling for them to pick up my car!!! That they schedule. I lost 3 workdays just waiting for them. I called for follow up they said wait till 4 pm and nothing. I’m sorry but don’t waist your time
Iszick Renta
These guys came to Oxnard to look at my car great response very professional great service helped me out a lot an answered every question thank you guys for helping me out
Brandon Humeston
5th Street scheduled, and then ghosted, 2 separate appointments that they personally chose to pick up my vehicle. Gave them the benefit of doubt after the first time for not showing up. Hit up Efrain if you want to waste your time! Worse experience than craigslist, and a total waste of time.
stephen levato
Please call me back. You have caused an issue in MY NAME with the DMV. You need to contact me, I’ve been trying to contact your company for weeks. I’ve contacted my lawyer.
Juan Jiménez
Great selection of used parts, ask for Efrain
